2003 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu would be higher. Both 2003 Chevrolet Malibu and 2011 Lexus IS are equipped with a 3,500 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (200 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 191 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Lexus IS is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Malibu, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu | 2011 Lexus IS | |
Make | Chevrolet | Lexus |
Model | Malibu | IS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 375 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1569 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4636 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |